Embark on a 3-day mythical journey to the Peloponnese with our experienced English speaking driver, discovering cities rich in history and folklore stories from ancient, to medieval and contemporary times. The tour starts early morning from Athens to head to your first stop at the city of Nafplion (approximate travel time: 1.5 hours).

DAY 1> NAFPLION DISCOVERY

Upon arrival to Nafplion, start your walk from Nafplion’s old town to stroll through the cobbled roads; watch the neoclassical buildings and enjoy so many shops and vibrant city square. An interesting way to explore the city is by horse carriage, or you can rent a bicycle carriage; take a local train that takes you around the town or ask your driver to show you around. Whether you are interested in archeology or folk costumes, “kombolois” or ouzo, you’ll find at least one museum to visit in Nafplio.

Discover the famous fortress of Bourtzi, built in 1473, on a tiny inlet right in front of the port by taking a local ferry from the coastline road. The importance of this castle throughout the years and the battles it has seen, makes it an ideal location for the first historical tales and folklore. After enjoying the magnificent site, head towards the old town of Nafplio, under the cannons of the Old Town’s 1st line of fortification, while the UNESCO World Heritage fortress of Palamidi dominates the view right above it. If you continue walking along the old country road of Nafplio, under Akronauplia fortress, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking views of the dominant cliffs covered in succulent vegetation with the fortress as its crown at the top.

Continue along the coastline until you reach a small secluded beach for delicacies and refreshments or a short swim.  Overnight in Nafplion.

DAY 2> MONEMVASIA DISCOVERY

Breakfast at your hotel, after which you are ready to explore your second stop, the medieval castle of Monemvasia (approximate travel time: 3 hours).

The Castle Town of Monemvasia is among the most impressive and romantic destinations in Greece. Located on the southeastern side of Peloponnese, Monemvasia was entirely carved on the backside of a sea rock in Medieval times. This huge sea rock is not visible from the mainland so that the locals could avoid the pirate raids and enemy attacks. The only way to reach Monemvasia was by boat, while later via a paved pathway that was constructed to connect the castle entrance to the mainland. This is how the peninsula got its name – in Greek Monemvasia means a single passage.

A walk within the walls of Castle Town is like a trip back in time, while the sea view from the castle top is breathtaking.  See the elegant stone mansions and the Byzantine churches, such as the church of Agia Sofia and Christ Elkomenos. This fantastic place was originally constructed in the Medieval Ages and has been continuously inhabited since then. Today most of the old mansions have been converted into guesthouses and boutique hotels, while you can find plethora of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars serving world-awarded cocktails on their roof-top terrace. Outside the Rock, there is a new modern town with many tourist facilities.

A short stop on the way to Monemvasia: AGIOS NIKOLAOS VILLAGE

The Laconian countryside is waiting to reveal its secrets to unsuspecting visitors and well-informed nature lovers alike. With its unbeatably beautiful landscapes, untamed natural beauty and secluded Lagoon it reminds its visitors of a fairy tale.

As you head to Monemvasia we will make a short stop at the Agios Nikolaos village, developed during the Byzantine period around the Monastery of Aghios Nikolaos Schineas, which dominates the village square and was built in the 11th or 12th century, it is a cross-formed church with a dome and narthex. Almost all the interior wall surfaces are decorated with two layers of frescoes. The underlying one, visible at one point, probably dates from the early 13th century. In the years up to the Greek War of Independence, the church was occasionally used as a school. With only 100 permanent inhabitants, this charming small village is where you can try some of the best local pies and homemade pasta in a traditional tavern. The Lakonia area is famous for its lush olive groves and the highest quality award winning olive oil.  Overnight in Monemvasia. 

 DAY 3> MYSTRAS DISCOVERY

Breakfast at your hotel, after which an experienced guide pick you up from your hotel to continue to your last stop, the old Byzantine city of Mystras (approximate travel time: 1.5 hours).

The Byzantine Castle of Mystras is geographically located on the southern side of Peloponnese, close to Sparta. The Castle is an old town surrounded by Byzantine walls and with an imposing palace on top of the hill, known mostly for its Byzantine churches with impressive frescoes inside. At the foot of the hill is the modern village of Mystras, with traditional architecture and picturesque squares.

This is one of the most important sites in Greece and includes well-preserved Byzantine churches, the remains of a Palace, and fortified walls. Famous church of Agios Demetrios where Konstantinos Paleologos, the last Byzantine Emperor, was crowned, and Agioi Theodoroi with beautiful frescoes are some of the spots of great historical significance.

Today the Palace of Mystras and some churches are under the restoration process. In the courtyard of Agios Demetrios, you can visit the Archaeological Museum with many Byzantine and ecclesiastical exhibits. In 1989, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Monument.

Evening return to Athens (approximately 2.5 hours).

This tour is private for small groups of 1 – 9 persons (by private car or minivan). For larger private groups up to 39 persons, prices are available on request.

 The tour is offered in English language. Other languages (French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, German) are available upon request at extra cost.

All hotels included in the above package are 3*  hotels, in Double or Triple occupancy – hotel upgrades are possible on request with extra charge.Climate resilience tax is payable directly at the hotels at 3 Euros per room/per night (or up to 10 Euros per room/per night in higher hotel class)

 Children (3 – 12 years old) and infants are welcome to participate with parental guidance.